Despite the loss of projected starting linebacker John Fonoti, who will not play this season because of personal reasons, Glanville expects the defense to improve significantly. Last season, Glanville's first as UH defensive coordinator, the Warriors were ranked 102nd in total defense (438.4 yards per game) and 110th in scoring defense (35.7 points per game).

Glanville said it was "disappointing" that Fonoti would not be available this season. At the end of spring practice, Fonoti and C.J. Allen-Jones were listed as the starting outside linebackers in UH's 3-4 scheme.

Glanville said Tyson Kafentzis, listed as the backup to Allen-Jones, and Brashton Satele can replace Fonoti. NCAA rules prohibit Glanville from commenting on another likely contender, Amani Purcell, who needs to pass a summer session class to be eligible to play this season. Purcell is transferring from Penn State.